White Tongue

White coated tongue is a relatively common symptom and usually it means nothing serious. However, it may be a sign of some serious condition those we should mention in this article. Generally speaking, some tongue coating exists by every person as it is a natural process of accumulation of dead mucosa cells.

In this case the tongue (and possible other areas of oral mucosa) is covered by white coats of fungi origin. The most common fungus causing this condition is Candida albicans. The coatings can be wiped away, the mucosa beneath is often reddish and irritated. These infections are usually well treatable with antifungal agents, but their frequent recurrence can be a warning of certain immunodeficiency (typically diabetes-related).

Streptococcal infections

Bacterial infections of the oral cavity are often associated with pain in the throat and, among other symptoms, by whitish color of the tongue. Tonsillitis is a typical example of such condition.

Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia means white coloration of mucosa (not only on tongue) that may indicate a presence of precancerous lesion. When healthy mucosa faces any harmful effects for longer time, it may undergo some histological changes that are visible as white coloration. White patches of such mucosa can not be wiped away as they are not a coat but an integral part of the tongue. Leukoplakia can be a consequence of cigarette smoking and hard liquor drinking. Some forms or leukoplakia are associated with viral infections, leukoplakia on tongue’s edges (so-called hairy leukoplakia) may be a symptom of HIV infection.

Diagnostic approach

In addition to medical history (oral hygiene, smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages, known immune disorders) and basic physical examination physicians can take smears for microbiological examination to diagnose fungal infections. When there is a suspicion of leukoplakia a small sample of tissue from target location can be obtained for histological examination to rule out precancerous changes.

All information in this website is written with the best knowledge and intentions of the authors. However, all articles are for informational purposes only and the authors do not take any legal responsibility for their practical application without consulting a doctor.